Del Potro vs Kei Nishikori Miami Open 2018 Preview and Prediction

With Roger Federer out of the tournament after his shock loss to Thanasi Kokkinakis, Juan Martin Del Potro will be even more confident of taking the title in Miami and completing the Sunshine Double. The Argentinian does have a potentially tough clash in the third round on Sunday though, facing a former top 5 player in Kei Nishikori.

Nishikori toughed out a three set win over John Millman, beating the Australian 7-6 4-6 6-3 in just under three hours. While it gave him some much needed on court time, it seems far from ideal for Nishikori to be heading into a match with the in-form player on tour afterwards. “I didn’t play the past two weeks, so I had to get used to playing points again, but in the third set I thought I played well. I am feeling very good and playing with intensity for three hours today is good for my confidence.” he said.

Del Potro was also taken three sets by a lower ranked opponent, beating Robin Haase 6-4 5-7 6-2 to extend his winning streak – now the biggest on tour. He was far from happy with his performance, knowing a lot needs to change. “It was a very difficult first match of the tournament for me. I’m still alive and that’s important. But I need to improve my tennis, my physicality and my mind if I want to go further. My body started to feel tired but I will have some time now to recover.” he said.

“It could be a very difficult match for me. Kei has a very good two-handed backhand and good returns. And he’s playing well, he feels 100 per cent, free of pain on his wrist. And he’s a dangerous guy on Tour. I mean, if he has a good day, he can beat all of the other players. I must play even better than tonight.” Del Potro said. He does currently lead the head to head 5-2 although Nishikori has won two of the last three.

Prediction – Juan Martin Del Potro in straight sets

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